featuring Melodia Zerna

“Boundaries are like fences; they keep out what you don’t want and protect what you value.” – Henry Cloud, Boundaries: When to Say Yes, How to Say No to Take Control of Your Life (1992)

THE SANDWICH

Kumusta po kayo? “Ayos lang” When asked why she love her dog so much, this would be her typical reply; “ Ang aso, gawan mo ng mabuti o masama, pag-uwi mo, kumakawag ang buntot sa yo, sila na lang ang kasama ko ngayon, mga aso.”

Sandwich from tons of responsibilities, Melody is now living on her own, with her fur babies.

Pertaining to whom she has been with since when she left her parents home from Zapote, a place in Cavite. More than 3 years ago. Melody Zerna, a 49 years old, single mom, caregiver, furr parent, and a business woman, experiences taking care of her brother who has Cancer. She believes that would make her mom happy. She has two daughters, each from her two different husbands which she is working for.

WHO BELONGS TO SANDWICH GENERATION?

Individuals in the sandwich generation typically care for their aging parents or family members, while also supporting their own children. These individuals are typically between the ages of 30 and 60, though this can vary. 

Melody faces unique challenges as she balances the roles of caregiving, financial support, and emotional guidance for both generations; her children, her brothers and her parents from before. She experiences a dual caregiving role that puts a strain on her time, her energy, and resources, forcing her to balance multiple priorities while meeting the needs of her loved ones.

WHAT DO THEY DO?

In the intricate practice of caregiving, individuals within the sandwich generation find themselves naturally gravitating towards easing the burdens of others, finding fulfillment in acts of assistance.  

They shoulder responsibilities like managing bills, healthcare expenses, and educational fees for both generations, taking on the role of financial stewardship. 

Yet, their support goes beyond monetary concerns, as they offer comfort and understanding through emotional trials and lend practical aid in daily tasks.

 Acting as advocates, they navigate complex systems to ensure their loved ones receive proper care and support. Amidst the chaos, they carve out moments for self-care and tirelessly champion the well-being of both parents and children, embodying the essence of caregiving with steadfast love and unwavering dedication.

THE WH IN SANDWICH

When asked what is her reason for her to sacrifice a part of her time, her life. she answers.

“Ibinilin kasi ng nanay ko sa akin ang nakabubunso kong kapatid.” 

 She takes care of her children in Zapote back when they were in elementary and highschool living under the same roof, an extended family, she is the one to provide for the bills and expenses at home.With no one to help being a single mom, Melody do lots of side hustle and business like selling jewelries, yakult and toys.

She felt the burden for a long time but with lack of awareness, she endures her life being the first one to call.

“Hindi naman kasi sa’min uso yung mga ganiyan noon.” her answers pertaining to mental health awareness and boundaries.

“Hindi ako nakapagtapos, kasi ayoko na mag-aral ng college, kasi nakita ko yung nanay ko binubugbog ng tatay ko, tumutulong ako sa mama ko mag-tinda, nag-rerepack kami ng mga rekado noon eh. Sila nag-aral ako hindi.”

Her home in Cavite where she resides is the only property she owns, with rights, with no title. 

“Marami akong bahay pero walang mga titulo, ine-enjoy ko lang ang life kasi maikli lang.”

Her answers pertaining to her investments, and if she has savings or accounts.

“Naipit ako sa responsibilidad eh, mahal ko kasi ang mga kapatid ko, pero kahit anong tulong ko, ako pa rin ang masama, kaya iniwan ko na rin sila. Matapos mamatay ng kapatid kong may Cancer, galit sila sa’kin, pero ako, wala akong pinagsisihan kasi pinili ko naman yun, nagawa ko na.”

She replied, when asked if she has regrets with what she did in the past. Upon helping her family and when she decided to stop.

“Maswerte lang ako sa mga anak ko at nagsipag-aral, malas sa asawa, swerte sa anak…, hinahayaan ko sila magdesisyon kasi nasa wastong gulang na sila. Tiyaka, ayoko matulad sila sa’kin kaya malaya yan sila.” 

pertaining to her children's decision being away with her, she answers.

“Buong buhay ko kasama ko ang pamilya ko mga kapatid ko, nitong pandemic na lang kami nagkahiwalay eh, okay na rin yun, kasi pagod na rin ako maglingkod sa kanila.”

And when asked why she decided to finally leave.

THE SPACE BETWEEN BUNS ARE FOR B–BOUNDARIES

There are profound challenges faced by individuals who shoulder the responsibility of caring for both their families and their children.

Humans have acts of kindness and compassion but boundaries are crucial for individuals like Melody, who find themselves in the position of caregiving for multiple generations of family members.

 Without boundaries, individuals risk sacrificing their own well-being, neglecting their emotional health, and straining relationships. 

“Gusto ko mag-abogado kasi aktibista rin ako no’n. Siguro kung nakapag-aral ako magaling ako, kasi yung mga tao dito sa amin, sa’kin nahingi ng tulong, kapag may mga kailangang lakarin sa munisipyo, o kaya kapag may kailangan na kausapin o puntahan.”

Her answers pertaining to what is her dream.

As of the moment, Melody is selling accessories and a probiotic drink, enjoying her life with her fur babies. 

Recalling her experiences makes her wonder and continue, right now, she still chooses to help others, but this time, animals.

“Yung mga anak ko ang nagtuturo sa’kin ng boundaries, boundaries na yan, dapat kapag ‘no, no lang, or yes’ yes.”

The importance of setting boundaries protects personal well-being, maintains emotional health, preserves relationships, foster independence, and prevents burnout. 

By establishing clear boundaries, a person can ensure they have time for self-care, maintain healthier relationships, and navigate their caregiving responsibilities more effectively, ultimately enhancing the well-being of both themselves and their loved ones.

“Eh minsan makulit pa rin ako, sige ng tulong, pero dyan talaga ako masaya, pero hindi na dapat sobra.”

she replied as she recalled how she deals with her choices now.

Melodia Zerna

Mahal na Ina ng Hapis ng  Turumba; English: Our Lady of Sorrow of Turumba. 

Mahigpit ang pagkakatali ng pananampalataya sa mga Pilipino. Kinalakihan ng marami  sa atin ang paniniwalang mayroong isa sa langit na pinakamakapangyarihan sa lahat ang  gumagabay sa mga tao. Kaliwa’t kanan ang isinasagawang mga prusisyon, komemorasyon at  pagdiriwang. Iba’t-iba ang pamamaraan upang ipakita ang pananampalataya base sa sari-saring  tradition at kasaysayan na kaugnay at hango sa gawi ng Kristianismo at Katolisismo. 

Pebrero 3 idinaos ang pagbisita sa Simabahan ng Antipolo ng Mahal na Ina ng Hapis ng  Turumba mula Pakil, Laguna. Nasaksihan ko ang ang traslasyon na nagsimula apat na daang  dipa patungong simbahan. Magkasunod na ipinarada ang imahe ng Mahal na Ina ng Hapis ng  Turumba at Mahal na Birhen ng Kapayapaan at Mabuting Paglalakbay. 

Pinangunahan ito ng mga debotong mananayaw at banda mula Pakil Laguna sa Simbahan ng St.  Peter of Alcantara Parish. Binibigyang pugay ng mga deboto ang birhen sa pamamagitan ng  masiglang sayaw at awit ng Sa Birhen!

Walang isang uri ang mga deboto, may mga bata, matanda, anuman ang kasarian, pamilya, barkada, ang lahat ay umiindak at sumasayaw, bitbit at iwinawagayway ang maliliit na  replica at litrato ng birhen. 

Labing-limang minutong lakaran, nakatungtong rin sa simbahan ang mga imahen at mga  deboto, dito nakilala ko ang mag asawang si Aling Nina at Mang Toni—kapwa magkababata sa  Pakil at lumaking deboto ng Birhen. Magiliw na ikinwento nila sa akin kung paanong pinagtagpo  sila ng tadhana, isang dahilan at rason ng pananampalataya, dahil bukod sa sila ay  magkapangalan (Antonino at Antonina), pareho rin sila ng kaarawan.  

“Hangga’t maari, pinupuntahan namin lahat ng pinupuntahan ng birhen” naging parte na  ng buhay nila ang manampalataya at ang gawain ng pabibisita. Nung tinanong ko sila kung ano ang palagian nilang dasal “kalusugan, kasaganaan, masayang pamilya at relasyon…kapayapaan” ang sagot nila sa akin kasabay ng ngiting may pananalig. 

Ilan lamang sina Aling Nina at Mang Toni sa daan-daang deboto na nakiisa sa traslasyon, bitbit ang kani-kanilang pasasalamat at panalangin.

Sa mga maliliit na kalsada at mga sulok ng Las Piñas, may iba't ibang ngiti at pag-asa na bumabalot sa mga hayop na itinuturing na mga 'stray'. Sa likod ng mga pintuan at sa mga puso ng ilan, naroroon ang isang babaeng handang magbukas ng pinto para sa mga naliligaw na kaluluwa ng mga alagang hayop - si Mori Rui.

Si Mori Rui, isang babaeng may 51 taong gulang, hindi lamang isang taga-turo sa Ingles (ESL) kundi isang tanglaw sa mga alagang hayop na walang tahanan. Mula pa noong kanyang kabataan, ang kanyang pamilya ay puno ng pagmamahal sa mga aso at pusa. Ngunit sa kanyang kuwento, ang pagmamahal sa mga hayop ay hindi lamang biro - ito'y isang misyon.

Ang buhay ni Mori Rui ay nabago nang biglang sumulpot sa kanilang bakuran ang isang pusang may matamis na ngiti. Ito ang naging simula ng kanyang pagmamahal sa mga hayop na palaboy. Sa halip na pumunta sa petshop, dinala na lang nila sa kanilang tahanan ang pusang iyon na pinangalanan nilang Aiji. Mula noon, hindi na natapos ang kanyang pagtulong sa mga hayop.

Sa tulong ng PAWS (Philippine Animal Welfare Society), naging aktibong boluntaryo si Mori. Ang una niyang inalagaang hayop ay si Raisin, isang stray cat na dinala niya sa kanilang tahanan. Mula noon, patuloy na dumami ang mga alagang hayop sa kanilang bahay, dahil sa kanyang walang sawang pagsisikap na magligtas at mag-alaga.

Subalit hindi madali ang lahat. Sa kanyang mga rescue missions, maraming pagsubok at peligro ang kanyang hinaharap. Minsan, kailangan niyang bumaba sa mga lugar na delikado, tulad ng creak at drainage, upang iligtas ang mga hayop. May mga insidente rin na nagresulta sa kanyang pakikibaka sa mga masasamang tao at barangay. Ngunit sa kabila ng lahat ng ito, patuloy siyang naglilingkod sa mga hayop na nangangailangan.

Laban din si Mori sa mga breeder, na naglalako ng mga hayop para sa tubo lamang. Sa halip, pinapalaganap niya ang kahalagahan ng pag-adopt ng mga stray pets at pagbibigay sa kanila ng bagong pag-asa.

Mula pa noong kanyang kabataan, batid na ni Mori ang kahalagahan ng pag-aalaga sa mga alagang hayop. Ang kanyang pamilya ay puno ng pagmamahal sa mga aso, at ang kanyang ate naman ay isang certified cat person. Subalit, ang pinakamalaking impluwensiya sa kanya ay ang kanyang lolo, isang Europian Filipino, na nagbigay sa kanya ng malalim na aral sa pag-aalaga ng mga hayop. Sabi niya, "Kung gusto mo ng aso, dapat matutunan mong alagaan ang aso."

Sa kanyang paglaki, naging bahagi na ng kanyang buhay ang pagtulong sa mga hayop na nangangailangan. Sa edad na limang taon, mayroon na silang aspin, at mula noon, hindi na nawalan ng pwesto sa kanilang tahanan ang mga hayop.

Sa kanyang mga karanasan, may mga hayop siyang tinawag na kanyang mga kaibigan. Isa na rito si Toshi, na kahit may kidney problem, nagtagal ng 13 taon sa kanilang piling. Subalit mayroon ding malulungkot na kuwento, tulad ni Tags na patuloy na lumalaban matapos tahiin ang katawan dahil sa pagtaga at si Jaws na na-dislocate ang panga dahil sa pagkabundol.

Sa kabila ng mga hamon, patuloy na naglilingkod si Mori Rui sa kanyang komunidad, patunay na ang pagmamahal at pag-aalaga sa mga hayop ay hindi lamang tungkulin kundi pati na rin isang biyaya. Si Mori Rui, kasama ang kanyang mga alagang hayop, ay patunay na ang pagmamahal ay hindi lamang nararamdaman kundi ito'y ginagawa. Sa bawat yugto ng kanyang buhay, patuloy siyang naglalakbay sa landas ng pagmamahal at kabutihan.

Sa huli, ang kanyang mensahe sa mundo ay simple ngunit may malalim na kahulugan: “May buhay din sila..” – Mori Rui

Lahat naman tayo ay nangangarap magkaroon ng negosyo, marami rin sa atin na ang nagiging mindset na "madali ang magnegosyo basta ang lugar ay matao", at ang laging sumasagip sa ating mga isipan ang negosyong tindahang dahil mas madali at common, pero naiisip din ba natin ang kanilang karanasan, paghihirap, at mga pagsubok na kanilang nararanasan sa araw-araw na pagnenegosyo para mabuhay at magkaroon nang ipapakain sa pamilya. Kaya tunghayan natin ang buhay nang pagkakaroon ng tindahan para mabuhay at may maipakain para sa ating mga pamilya.

Katulad na lang na aking nakilala rito na si Merly Puyong, na limangpu't tatlong taong gulang, na nakatira sa Pasig City na kung saan doon din nakapwesto ang kaniyang munting tindahan sa gitna ng palengke ng Pasig. Nasabi rin niya na sa awa ng Diyos, ang tindahan niya ay limang taon nang nakatayo at patuloy na napapatakbo ang negosyong tindahan ni Merly.

Nabanggit din niya na sa limang taon niyang pagpapatakbo ng negosyo, marami rin siyang mga pagsubok na kinakaharap sa araw-araw na pagtitinda.

"Syempre, minsan, may mga makukulit na bumibili tapos kailangan mong intindihin at pagtsagaan kasi syempre doon ka kumikita sa kanila" - saad niya

"Mahina rin yung tinda dahil yung mga tao, minsan walang pera, [idagdag] pa yung mga kalamidad na dumating sa ating bansa. Kaya tiyaga lang talaga" dagdag pa niya.

Sa kabila ng mga pagsubok na dumarating sa kaniyang pagnenegosyo, hindi lang palaging pagsubok ang nararanasan ni Merly. May mga magaganda rin siyang karanasan sa pagtatayo ng kaniyang negosyong tindahan.

"Mabenta lalo na kapag yung mga nagbabantay ay maayos at marunong mag-entertain sa tao na bumibili" - sabi niya.

Gayon pa man, nananatiling positibo si Merly sa pagpapatakbo niya ng kaniyang tindahan at paghihiling na sana tumagal pa at mas maging matagumpay pa ang kaniyang tindahan sa mga susunod pa na panahon.

At may iniwan din siyang payo at tips para sa mga taong nagpaplano at nangangarap na magkaroon at magtayo ng isang negosyo katulad ni Merly.

"Sa mga taong gustong mag negosyo na ganitong tindahan, kailangan may sariling puhunan, kung pwede huwag utangin ang puhunan para hindi sumakit ang ulo mo, at syempre, para kumita ka para sa pamilya [at] para guminhawa ang buhay" - pagbibigay niya.

Ito ang mga binitawang mga salita ni Merly para sa atin na hindi imposible ang lahat basta't ikaw ay matiyaga at masipag. 

Wala naman talagang madali sa buhay natin, laging may problema at pagsubok na kahaharapin; pero sa buhay, hindi mo rin masasabing kaya mo kung hindi mo ito mararanasan at susubukan.

In the face of adversity, there are individuals who rise above their circumstances, defying the limitations imposed by their health conditions. Meet Anchie, a remarkable woman whose unwavering spirit and resilience have become a guiding light for those navigating the challenging journey of dialysis.

Resin Anchie Tirao Blanquera, a 31-year-old woman from Baao, Camarines Sur, has been living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 5. Diagnosed at the age of 30 in March 2023, and on that day, her life took an unexpected turn.

Anchie found it difficult to accept her condition initially, questioning why she was chosen to bear this burden. But with the support of her loved ones and her unwavering faith, she gradually embraced her new reality as part of her life's journey.

Living with CKD stage 5 and undergoing dialysis has not been easy for Anchie. It challenged her mentally, emotionally, physically, and financially. As a mother, she faced the challenge of not being able to care for her daughter as she used to, and she had to let go of certain activities she once enjoyed. Even her diet had to change, there are only foods that the doctor allows her to eat because of her condition.

Anchie said, after each dialysis session, she sometimes feels better and more energized, but there are also moments of discomfort and weakness, especially when she experiences hypertension during the procedure.

The financial burden of dialysis treatments, injections, and medications adds to her challenges. They spend about 25,000 PHP a month on dialysis treatments, injections, and medications alone. She has dialysis twice a week on Tuesday and Friday.

Dayrel Blanquera, her husband, works as a driver for the engineering office and is employed on a job-order basis by their municipality; however, her husband's job does not provide enough income to cover all their expenses. There are also times when they don’t have money for her dialysis, injections, and medicine. So, they borrow money from someone, like family and friends, just to provide her medical needs. 

            However, amidst the challenges, Anchie's indomitable spirit shines through. Determined to contribute and still support her family despite her health condition, she started selling diamond paintings, clothes, perfume, and food online. From there, she was able to provide some extra money for their expenses—still not enough, but at least it gave a little help to them. She also said that her family helps her in the sense that they buy products from her online selling business. And today, she also makes herself busy by attending short courses online, further expanding her knowledge and skills.  Her family members lend a helping hand by offering rakets to somehow help them, even in a little way. Currently, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) helps them with their expenses.

            Anchie's journey has been filled with highs and lows even before her health condition. However, she has never considered giving up. She firmly believes that everything happens for a reason, and it is this mindset that empowers her to face each day with courage and determination.

Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit. Despite the obstacles she faces, she remains an inspiration to all who know her. Her unwavering faith, the support of her loved ones, and her determination to make the most of her situation serve as a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges.

As Anchie herself once said, "Kaya baka sa akin binigay ni Lord ang sakit, kasi baka mas kaya ko." These words encapsulate her strength and determination, reminding us all that we are capable of overcoming any difficulties that comes our way.

In a cheerdance team, there are three main positions – the base, the spotter, and of course, the flyer. Most of the time, flyer is the "main character". They are lifted to pose at the top of the pyramid, and oftentimes thrown into the air. Yet, they remain all smiles and cheerfully standing like the height is no big deal. And as you can tell, this is a story about a flyer.

Her name is Schahriah, 21 years old and a graduating Communication Arts student in Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila. Since high school, she has been part of their grade-level cheerdance team every Intramurals. It's her most awaited time of every academic year. Weighing 35 kilos, she was an ideal flyer and became a star flyer in her team. Her naturally bright aura came handy when posing in which her gleaming smile is very much needed.

But even the stars also fall. Her biggest fall was the time she was diagnosed with scoliosis. “Para akong pinagbagsakan ng langit at lupa.”

Scoliosis is the abnormal curvature of the spine, resulting in a C-curve or S-curve. Roughly 3 million Filipinos are diagnosed with scoliosis, from mild to severe cases, genetic to idiopathic. (Scoliosis Research Society) Her X-ray showed a C-curve in the middle section of the spine with 36 degree curvature. 

“Ang sabi (ng doktor), surgery na raw ‘yung kailangang gawin.” Her parents kept on seeking other professional opinions, afraid that there might be complications when surgery is performed. “Nag-worry din ‘yung parents ko na baka hindi raw ako magkaroon ng ‘normal life’.” Eventually they consulted an orthopedic doctor and he prescribed a brace.

When she began wearing the brace, it also began her hardships. The doctor advised her to wear it for 23 hours everyday, only to be removed during bath time. There were a few changes in her daily functioning because of limitations and prohibitions such as that of her sport.

At school, there were some comments about her awkward walk, constantly straight posture and name-calling such as “Iron Man” because of her hard innerwear. “Honestly, nakakaapekto talaga siya sa self-esteem. There was a time na sobrang baba ng self-esteem ko dahil sa scoliosis.” Aside from a little teasing, she also had marks from wounds and blisters due to brace adjustment. “Mayroon pa rin, para na siyang ‘warrior scars'.”

Her life is like cheerdance. Flyers don't go out there doing routine all on their own. Bases lift the flyers and spotters support the star's descent. In her case, she had her loving family and friends to support and always have her back, ready to catch. “Thankfully naman, meron akong  supportive people around na nagpapaalala sakin na hindi naman kabawasan sa pagkatao ko na may scoliosis ako.” Now, she expresses her confidence through wearing trendy and fitted clothing without feeling conscious of judgy eyes. “It’s a process talaga, continuous acceptance sa sarili and self-love.”

Now that she has fully embraced herself, she is back to being a cheerleader. But this time, it’s to cheer others into loving themselves despite imperfections. She now advocates scoliosis awareness through joining Scoliosis Warriors Support Group on Facebook. She participates in spreading awareness by reposting, joining events, and sharing her story to the group to encourage others to get proper diagnosis. “We’re not broken talaga, we're just bent.”

She has now switched places from flyer to spotter, supporting new 'warriors' through her advocacy. Now, it's her turn to say “I got your back!”

By Ronnie F. Crispo Jr. | BAJ 3-1N

A silent revolution in the heart of urban landscapes, where skyscrapers pierce the skyline, is taking place within the walls and ceilings of business process outsourcing (BPO) companies.

In the Philippines, the BPO industry grows exponentially year on year, bolstering the economy with nearly $30 billion each year. In 2019, 1.3 million Filipinos were actually employed in over 1000 BPO companies, which also shows 8–10% growth every year. Moreover, the country holds 10–15% of the global BPO market, serving the USA, Europe, and other neighboring countries like Japan, New Zealand, and Australia.

In the corporate world's bustling rhythm and cacophonies, there is a special beat that echoes individuals embarking on a journey of self-discovery, shaping their identities amidst a myriad of challenges or opportunities, and I am lucky enough to see that different lens of life behind our screens.

'En Pointe and On the Clock': Twirling through the Challenges of Early Adulthood

In the fast-paced cityscape where business suits meet dancing shoes, I am a college student pursuing a degree in journalism, which defies the conventional narrative of a working student.

According to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), around 216, 000 working students in the Philippines account for 8% of the total college population. Hence, a growing number of students like me are donning multiple hats as we navigate the challenging terrain of work and academia.

As the sun sets and the city lights come to life, I am not just clocking in to take outbound calls as a call center agent, where your personality depends on the type of customer you will speak with. As the sun rises, on the other hand, a magical transformation enters as the enchanting rhythm of dance rehearsals replaces the ticking of the corporate clock aside from my morning classes.

In a world where education often comes with a hefty price tag, one might wonder why this journey of balancing books and bills starts so early for Filipino students. Breadwinners who juggle both classes and jobs, navigating academic demands with long hours doing homework, reviews, or exams.

This might be a "typical" story where Filipino families rely on their children’s contributions to meet household expenses or support siblings’ education. As such, how about those children driven by a deep-rooted sense of responsibility and determination to help their families? 

Would it be really necessary for a child to set aside his studies and shoulder the role of provider during his pivotal early adulthood stage?

Through graveyard shifts and early adulthood, one of my colleagues' journeys unfolds as a testament to resilience and determination.

Hailing from vast farmlands surrounded by mountain ranges in the southern part of Oriental Mindoro, Bongabong, Daryl started capturing the unique synergy between his work endeavors and independent lifestyle in one of the highly urbanized cities in Metro Manila, Taguig City.

At 18, he finds himself unexpectedly shouldering the responsibility of being the breadwinner of his family. From navigating the delicate balance between career aspirations and familial obligations to the sacrifices made in pursuit of financial stability, Daryl was able to shed light on the determination, sacrifices, and triumphs of those like him at his age.

Daryl's journey, however, is not without its share of complexities.

One of the defining facets of his early adulthood is his quest for financial stability. As Daryl steps into the professional arena, he often finds himself grappling with the dual roles of breadwinner and dream chaser.

He once dreamed of being a doctor, but this delicate balance requires navigating through the maze of career choices, financial constraints, and familial expectations. The pressure to succeed for his family becomes a crucible in which resilience is tested, and tales of perseverance emerge as beacons of inspiration.

Yet, this period is not devoid of introspection, as the tumultuous twenties invite individuals like Daryl and me to question our beliefs, values, and purpose in life.

A Symphony of Service: Celebrating Customer Service Week

Daryl and I found our common interests in dancing. A different persona of ourselves was showcased during customer service week, which is typically celebrated every first week of October.

As this dedicated week unfolds, our company transforms our workplace into vibrant hubs of appreciation through a week full of events and heartfelt gestures that transform ordinary offices into festive, gratitude-filled spaces.

This orchestrates a week-long celebration that goes beyond our typical office routine. From themed dress-up days to team-building activities, I was able to call myself a legitimate dance choreographer for these engagements.

As the curtains close on customer service week, a time when businesses worldwide join in unison to recognize and celebrate the heartbeat of their operations, the lingering resonance is a reminder that behind every successful business interaction is a dedicated team committed to creating a symphony of service.

This experience I had with our company encapsulates the spirit of celebration, recognition, and the enduring impact of those who make exceptional customer service not just a job but a heartfelt endeavor like what Daryl and I have had since the beginning.

At the heart of this narrative lies the pursuit of dreams and aspirations to succeed with whatever goals we have, striving for career milestones that this early adulthood has brought to us, painted with the strokes of determination and perseverance.

REFERENCES:

Talmage-Rostron, M. (2024, January 15). Future Of BPO Industry in The Philippines 2024. https://www.nexford.edu/insights/the-future-of-bpos-in-the-philippines-and-growth-opportunities

TeamAsia / Hamlin-Iturralde Corporation (2023, December 18). Reasons Why Students Work While Studying in the Philippines. https://shoeboxcampaign.teamasia.com/reasons-why-students-work-while-studying-in-the-philippines/#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20Commission%20on,homework%2C%20reviews%2C%20and%20exams.

For over four centuries, the Chinese community has established a longstanding presence in the Philippines, surpassing the duration of various colonizers such as the Spanish, Americans, and Japanese. Initially drawn by economic opportunities, Chinese immigrants engaged in the Galleon Trade to facilitate the exchange of goods. Presently, the entrepreneurial spirit of the Chinese community persists, evident in their continued settlement in the country, particularly concentrated in Binondo—the world's oldest Chinatown—reflecting their enduring engagement in business ventures.

BINONDO’S ORIGIN

Established in 1594 by a Spanish Governor, Binondo was designed as a settlement for Chinese immigrants seeking permanent residence in the Philippines. It was first called Binundok but later on called Isla de Binondo by the Governor at that time and later on become the now-called Binondo. These Chinese immigrants embraced Catholicism; the predominant religion promoted by the Spanish government during that era. It was placed near Intramuros – the capital of the Philippines at that time so the Administration at that time could keep an eye on them. One of its notable resident is the first Filipino saint – San Lorenzo Ruiz. 

FILIPINO WORKERS IN BINONDO

The strong camaraderie between Filipinos and the Chinese community is palpable in Binondo. This vibrant Chinatown not only symbolizes friendship but also serves as a hub for diverse employment opportunities for Filipinos. From bustling restaurants to souvenir shops and various other business ventures, Filipinos actively engage in the local economy, effectively supporting the needs of their families.

Janice de Dios, a staff of a well-known restaurant here in Binondo, her life begun to change when she started working and immense herself in the area of Ongpin. “I started working here at the age of 19 and now, I am 25 years old and gained higher position... The Chinese owner of this store offers us endless possibility of growth.”  Undoubtedly, this district in Manila City holds not only historical importance but also signifies the enduring friendship forged over centuries between Filipinos and the Chinese.

THE HISTORICAL STREET OF ONGPIN

When exploring Binondo, your first stop is undoubtedly Ongpin Street, the bustling heart of business ventures in the area. Named after Don Roman Ongpin, a Filipino-Chinese businessman and revolutionary figure, the street holds historical significance. Don Roman Ongpin played a pivotal role in financing the revolution through his business, particularly as the proprietor of El Ochenta y Dos, initially located in Calye Colon, now part of San Fernando St. 

Adjacent to Ongpin Street stands the Binondo Church, established to cater to the locals in the vicinity who embraced Catholicism and sought a place to practice their newfound religion.

CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION IN BINONDO

On February 10, the Chinese New Year festivities unfolded in Binondo, drawing not only the Chinese community but also Filipinos into the vibrant celebration. Ongpin Street became a focal point, attracting tourists and small business owners eager to showcase and sell their products. Entrepreneurs seized the opportunity, offering a variety of items, including grilled dried squids, kwek-kwek, and more.

 The street buzzed with activity, featuring performances such as the dragon dance, enthusiastically participated in by Filipinos. Even children, driven by the desire to earn, improvised their dragon dance props using curtains and cardboard, capturing the spirit of the traditional performance.

Among the lively crowd were cosplayers who dressed up, adding a delightful touch to the celebration and generously offering free photo opportunities. For Filipinos, the Chinese New Year is a shared celebration, underscoring the enduring friendship between the two nations. Despite historical conflicts, reflecting on our shared history reveals a deep-rooted friendship that has contributed to our collective journey of nation-building and economic growth.

Inhinyero to Relojero 

Recto is infamously known as the center of document forgery, where people would visit to commission fake IDs, licenses, diplomas, and certificates, all because they are faster to acquire than the actual legal document. Due to this, locals have sarcastically dubbed the area "Recto University," the only university where anyone can graduate from any tertiary school they want without spending years studying as long as they have money to offer. Interestingly, the stalls are not hidden on secret passageways or alleys; rather, they are out in the open, and it only takes a minute stroll to spot one. 

However, surrounded by counterfeiting businesses, is a 49-year-old relojero from Sta. Mesa, named Jemcy Hanz C. Pilla, a former seaman who nowadays intricately repairs watches from morning until evening on his compactly small stall beside a rowdy, rusting generator.

Pilla graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering degree in 1994–1995 and ventured into the oceans as a seaman in 2000. During his seaman days navigating the vast blue sea on a cargo ship, he was able to set foot on the shores of Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Canada. Yet, despite living people’s dreams of traveling across the seven seas, Jemcy got homesick, surrendered this privilege, and decided to stay on land and spend quality time with his family. He didn’t hesitate to lose his job because he would rather watch his daughters grow up than be parted from them. Understanding his role as a family man with a wife and two children, Jemcy knows he still has to bring food to the table every day, so out of curiosity and interest, he quickly thought of becoming a watch repairer/relojero.

Having zero knowledge regarding watch repair, Pilla wholeheartedly dedicated two years of his life to studying the methods of a relojero, attending countless workshops, watching tutorials, and investing in tool kits necessary for the business until mastering the craft in 2016. He then started his own business with a friend who guided him in the process and left when Jemcy was ready to run the business by himself. 

Given the nature of the occupation, a fixed income is not guaranteed. Jemcy relies mainly on the number of customers per day and the difficulty of the repairs to be conducted; the harder the repair, the bigger the income. The difficulty scale of watch repair, according to him, goes from as easy as replacing a battery to wearing his lenses to intricately replacing tiny mechanical watch pieces. Oftentimes, he would encounter stubborn know-it-alls that disagreed with him on the watch’s complications, and he dealt with such customers by calmly and thoroughly explaining what’s broken and demonstrating the repairing process. Yet, despite all that, Jemcy still makes stable income daily and would treat beggars nearby with merienda everytime he sees one.

When asked if he would rather come back as a seaman and bear the dizziness that ocean waves give or stay as a relojero and bear the rowdy, rusty generator beside his stall, he immediately answered the latter because, according to him, he can always go back to his family when he’s done for the day repairing hand watches, unlike on the cargo ship, where he’s separated from them and has to endure floating in the ocean for days. 

From cautiously monitoring enormous cargo ship engines while floating on sea to carefully repairing hand watches on the busy avenue of Recto, Jemcy sits on his chair, wearing his lens and flashlight on his head, fixing people’s “time machines” from day to night, bearing in mind the mentality, “kung hindi ka mag-uupo rito, wala ka kikitain."

Walking around Plaza Miranda and taking photographs of the majestic Quiapo Church, or the National Shrine of the Black Nazarene, I could not help but admire the incredible Baroque composition of the edifice. On weekends, the area is as busy as it gets. It was jampacked, with hundreds of strangers brushing sleeves as they all pass through the narrow paths of Quiapo.

Just outside the left foyer of the church, a formation of stalls and vendors that stretches to the adjacent streets offers a wide assortment of items such as ornaments, accessories and novelties. What is strikingly noticeable is the string of carts carrying colorful wishing candles, situated right where Evangelista St. and Carriedo St. converge. These are particularly hard to miss.

Quiapo is famed for the great influence of spiritualism and mysticism in the district. The vendors of the wishing candles, who are mostly friendly, elderly women, always say that the success rate of their candles is through the stars. One vendor I asked, a stout senior with silver hair, said that her buyers’ wishes have always come true.

The competition in the candle-selling business is very tight, physically and figuratively. Their stalls are set up so closely next to each other, which in turn might make consumers torn on whom to buy candles from. Nevertheless, every vendor sitting behind their stalls radiates an aura of warmth—just like the candles that they burn.

In particular, I found Nanay Ligaya, 58, to be more tender toward her younger buyers. She estimates that she has been selling candles for 20 to 25 years.

Most vendors only sell their candles in bundles for P50, a necessary strategy to earn more money in the candle-selling business. Nanay Ligaya, on contrary, kindly offered me individual candles, which she sells for P10. She said that it’s a “student price” and it’s also for those who only want to try. At the same time, she also sells bundles composed of different-colored candles.

The colors that these candles bear each represent a unique aspect of life. Every stand displays a sign bearing a guide to these color symbolisms, as well as the name of their stall. For example, red represents family and health, yellow stands for the soul, and pink embodies romance.

Other colors are especially aligned with a specific purpose, or symbolize a very definite concept. Peach candles are made for students, those who seek to pass their exams or reap good fortune for anything related to their studies. Then, if you want to pay your dues to the Black Nazarene, light a maroon candle. Interestingly, they also sell black candles that are supposed to touch the conscience of those who have wronged you.

To make a wish, one must solemnly recite the prayer that comes with the candle, and right after, light the candle and let it burn until the wax melts completely—a practice that is noticeably similar to All Souls’ Day tradition. The carts also have built-in fire pits that hold the lit candles, and customers may opt to stay and watch as their wish tries to burn itself into the fabric of reality. And of course, don’t forget to hand your payment to the affable vendor, or maybe try to strike a friendly conversation with them too.

I bought a pink candle from Nanay Ligaya, who was supportive toward my color of choice, albeit she was quite surprised I didn’t pick a peach one. Unfortunately, the wind seemed to be sabotaging my wish as it kept blowing out my candle’s flame. She even joked that it might not yet be the right time for me to find romance. In my defense, I only wanted to try a wishing candle, and thought it would be absurdly funny to choose pink, as an academics-driven student.

Intriguingly, when I mentioned that I study at PUP, she asked if it was near a certain private medical college, which I know is located in Sampaloc. Curious, I asked her back if she knew anyone from that school—to which she replied that her daughter is currently a second-year student taking up nursing there.

Traveling daily from their home in Obando, Bulacan to sell candles in Quiapo, Nanay Ligaya endures her routine to support her daughter’s studies. Even so, she has acknowledged that income in the candle-selling business is weak.

Vendors like her manage to keep the life of this business despite the threat of continuous modernization because of firm believers—much like the candles that stay burning in defiance of the wind.

Most of these stalls, if not all, are in fact family-run businesses, and have been passed in a sequence of generations, she revealed. Moreover, some of the vendors there are not the actual owners of the stall, instead they are being paid to watch over the stand and sell candles. Nanay Ligaya, for one, said that she’s only a vendor at her stand, and that her sister-in-law owns it.

Despite fierce competition, the vendors get along well with each other. Nanay Ligaya appeared to be good friends with an older vendor behind her, Nanay Inday, who is in her 70s already.

During our conversation, Nanay Inday left her stall for a while, and in a riveting turn of events, another elderly woman, whose hair is still mostly black, arrived. I was delighted to know that she is Nanay Lydia, the owner of the stands that Nanay Ligaya and Nanay Inday watch over.

Or so I thought—it came to light that Nanay Ligaya was humble enough not to admit that she also owns the stand with Nanay Lydia. Apparently, that is true, as I checked the sign hanging from their stall to see both of their names on it.

The 59-year-old Nanay Lydia has been in the candle-selling business for at least 30 years. She lives in Malabon City, which is about half as far as Obando is from Manila. Wrapping her candles into bundles as we talk, Nanay Lydia’s philosophy slowly manifested itself.

The phrases “tibay ng loob” and “lakas ng loob” were her catchline, having made a gambit when she first tried to sell candles in Quiapo, as she knew the uncertainties of it. This also mirrors Nanay Ligaya’s everyday venture, where she has to keep her lakas ng loob ablaze to withstand this endeavors, however cruel.

Eventually, their stories came full circle when both of them said that, like their customers, they also light wishing candles and say their prayers—but on a daily basis before they go to work.

More importantly, both vendors have their own individual greatest wishes. On one hand, Nanay Ligaya desires nothing but for her daughter to finish college. This harkens back to her fondness for her student buyers. Her love for her daughter translates into her kindness for strangers of the same age.

Subsequently, Nanay Lydia had her heart set on an altruistic wish: prosperity for everyone. She has repeatedly demonstrated her selfless nature in helping her relatives acquire a livelihood, as it turns out that one of her children’s spouse also sells candles from another nearby stall she owns.

What weaves these stories altogether is the very concept of belief. Vendors of wishing candles manage to keep their business afloat owing to individuals who choose to believe in the promise of these objects—even without knowing whether that promise will remain empty or be fulfilled. In parallel, Nanay Ligaya and Nanay Lydia echo each other’s philosophy on tibay ng loob, which quite relates to the idea of believing in oneself. As Filipinos, spirituality is already tied to our identity. No matter one’s views on religion or the mystical, we still believe in something nonetheless.

The sun had already set when I left Quiapo. Even without the rays of the sun, Plaza Miranda remained a bustling marketplace. Entering Evangelista St., I passed by Nanay Ligaya and Nanay Lydia’s stall once more. Their smiles intact and wide, and the lit candles on their cart burning brighter all the more.

Photo Gallery

ni: Bella M. Dela Merced

Bagama’t hindi man itinuturing na "man's bestfriend" ang mga pusa, ang pagkilala naman ng ilan para sa kanila ay tulad na ng isang kapamilya. 

Sa kahabaan ng Recto Avenue, hindi lang alok ng mga fixer ng pekeng diploma, lisensiya, at iba pang mga dokumento ang tumawag sa aking atensyon, kung hindi pati na rin ang mga ngiyaw ng mga pusang nasa ibabaw ng mga panindang segunda-manong libro ni Tatay Roger Viernes, 65 taong gulang. 

Kasama ang kaniyang asawa, sabay silang nakikipagsapalaran, hindi lang para sa kanila ngunit pati na rin sa mga alagang kumakalam ang sikmura. Sa kanilang pwesto sa tabing kalye, labíng-dalawá na iba’t-ibang kulay na pusa ang kanilang inaalagaan. May nasa ibabaw ng mga libro, may naka-buntot kay Tatay Roger, may naglalaro, at may mistulang nagbabantay din ng kanilang mga panindang libro. Maliban pa sa mga pusa sa kanilang tindahan, mayroon din silang labíng-anim na pusa at dalawang aso sa kanilang tahanan. Bukod pa rito, may inaalagaan din si Tatay Roger na labíng-tatlóng pusa at pitong aso sa isang pribadong lote. 

Ayon kay Tatay Roger, ang mga pusa ay nakuha niya mula sa mga iniiwan na kuting sa highway at minsan ay mula sa inilalapit sa kanya para ampunin. 

“Ipinagbawal ni Isko yung mga aso rito noon, kaya pinasok ko yung mga aso doon sa lote. Nagbibigay na lang ako doon sa guard. Nakiusap na lang ako. Kumbaga parang renta,” saad niya. 

Habang ang mga pusa naman sa lote, kung siya ay nagtitinda ng mga prutas noon bago pa ito giniba, ay ang mga naiwan at nanatili na roon. 

Maliban sa mga kinukupkop niyang mga pusa at aso, nagpapakain din siya iba pang pusa at aso sa mga kalye. Sa bawat araw, nasa 700 pesos ang nagagatos niya sa pagpapakain na kinukuha niya mula sa kanilang pang-arawan na kita. 

“Minsan 1000, minsan 1,200. Hinahati ko para sa amin at sa kanila [mga pusa],” ayon sa kaniya nang itanong ko ang kanilang kinikita sa isang araw. 

“Mahirap kasi minsan pag hindi umabot [sa mga pinapakain] sa kalye [ang cat food], sinasabi ko next time na lang, bukas na lang ulit. Yung mga hindi ko nabigyan, babalikan ko na lang kinabukasan,” dagdag pa niya. 

Ngunit kung panahon talaga ng kagapitan at wala siyang maibigay, kinakausap niya na lang ang mga ito at sinasabing “pasensya na, hindi tayo kumita eh”. Sa dami ng mga pusa at aso na kaniyang pinapakain sa hirap ng buhay ngayon, hindi ko maiwasang isipin kung ano nga ba ang dahilan sa likod nito. 

Noong una, tinanong ko kung siya ba ay mahilig sa hayop, at dito niya na i-kwento na sa noong nasa ikaapat na baitang siya ay nagkaroon siya ng dalawang pusa. Sinundan ko naman ito ng mga tanong kung bakit niya nagustuhan ang mga hayop, ika niya, “Kung paano tayo nilikha ng Diyos, ganun din sila. Bakit tayo nabuhay? Bakit sila nabuhay? dahil sa Diyos. Kaya bakit natin sila pababayaan.” 

At sa pangatlong tanong, sinubukan kong alamin kung ano ba talaga ang rason kung bakit niya ito ginagawa. Noong una, akala ko kaya’t hindi siya nakasagot agad ay dahil sa ingay ng mga sasakyan at tao sa paligid namin. Binalak ko pang ulitin ang tanong nang sa gayon ay malinawan siya ngunit sa unang pagbigkas ng aking dila ay natigil ako dahil ito’y sinalubong ng mapulang mata at luha. 

“Gumagaan yung pakiramdam ko. Parang nawawala yung mga lungkot ko sa pamilya gano’n [kasi] yung mga anak ko ayaw sa’kin, malalayo ang loob nila sa’kin,” turan niya habang pinupunasan ang luha. 

Nang itanong ko ang patungkol sa kaniyang pamilya, bagaman ramdam ko na hirap siyang sabihin, ay binahagi niya pa rin ang mga ito. 

Sa edad na labíng-ápat na taong gulang ay nagtatrabaho na siya simula noong siya’y nahinto sa pag-aaral. Iba’t-ibang trabaho ang pinasukan niya—naging tubero, construction worker, helper, at nagtinda sa palengke. Bunso man sa apat na magkakapatid, ang responsibilidad ay hindi niya natakasan lalo na noong naghiwalay ang kaniyang mga magulang. 

Nakilala naman niya ang kaniyang unang asawa sa edad na labíng-siyám na taong gulang at nagkaroon sila ng apat na anak ngunit ang dalawa lamang ang nabuhay. Ang kanyang panganay ay kasalukuyang naninirahan din sa Maynila habang ang isa ay nasa Bulacan.

Sa kaniyang pangalawang asawa naman, nabibiyayaan silang ng tatlong anak. Ang dalawa rito ay sa Recto rin nagtatrabaho bilang fixer. 

Sa tagal ng aming naging pag-uusap, ramdam kong lubos ang pangungulila sa kaniyang mga anak. 

“Sabi ko parang ito [pusa] na nga yung mga tunay kong anak eh,” dagdag niya.

Magkahalong pait at tuwa ang maririnig sa bawat bigkas niya ng mga salita.

“Sabi nga nila kung iniipon mo yung mga pinapakain mo, siguro mayaman ka na ngayon. Para sa akin kasi gumagaan yung [loob] ko ‘pag napapakain ko sila, pamilya ko na eh,” saad niya. 

Marami man ang nag-uudyok sa kanya na tigilan na ang pag-aalaga dahil na rin sa gastos ngunit sa palagay ko, wala namang mahirap na sakripisyo para isang ama na kanlungan ang pamilya. 

Kagaya ng mga librong na nakasalansan sa kalye na naghihintay sa bagong magiging tagapangalaga nito, ang mga hayop ay naghahanap din ng tahanan na may kalinga at pagmamahal—tulad ng paglingap ni Tatay Roger. 

Hindi man maituturan ng mga hayop ang salitang ‘mahal kita’ gaya ng tao, ito naman ay nararamdaman sa paraang hindi matutumbasan. 

Kaya hindi nakapagtataka na ang turing sa kanila ay isang pamilya. 

Photo Gallery:

Entrance to New Greenland Farm in Barangay Bagong Silangan, Quezon City

“Hindi ba niyo alam na farming is the backbone of the nation?” emphasized Tatay Sablay on why communities should initiate urban farming. 

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Quezon City, a unique farming initiative thrives, distinct from traditional farms and vacant land use. The New Greenland Farm in Barangay Bagong Silangan prospers, producing a variety of leafy vegetables and crops for both community consumption and business ventures.

Developed last 2021 after the destruction brought by typhoon Ulysses, the local government units of Quezon City, with Mayor Joy Belmonte leading alongside Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), barangay officials and volunteers developed New Greenland Farm. It progressed as the first and largest urban farm within the city.

View inside the New Greenland Farm

New Greenland Farm started through Mayor Joy Belmonte and Barangay Bagong Silangan’s initiative after the destruction brought by typhoon Ulysses. 

Director and Chairperson of Livelihood in the New Greenland Farm Miles Lilio led the Barangay Bagong Silangan’s livelihood. Lilio welcomes everyone willing to be part of their thriving community, offering seminars and necessary training about urban farming. 

“Kung sino ang willing [na sumali], kasi hindi mo pwedeng i-force ang mga tao, kasi kung i-foforce mo ang mga tao na sumali at hindi bukal sa loob nila, hindi magiging maganda ang samahan,” she said, explaining how all of their farmers are volunteers.

Mrs. Lilio pointed out that the major objective of urban farming initiatives is addressing the food scarcity problems sustainably. She added that besides having a thriving livelihood, volunteers know that what they eat is safe since they plant it themselves.

Pioneer Tatay Severino Tores Sablay

For Severino Tores Sablay, one of the pioneers of New Greenland Farm, being sincere is the way to love farming. ”‘Wag mong sabihin iitim kayo, yong isang kandidato ng South Africa sa Miss Universe, sabi niya “Black is beautiful.” Oh hindi ba?” he teases. 

Sablay encourages his fellow residents to continue their support of farming. “Hindi ba niyo alam na farming is the backbone of the nation?” emphasized Sablay on why communities should initiate urban farming. 

Tatay Sablay and his freshly picked tomatoes 

Thorns that Prick Farmers

Like most farms, New Greenland is no stranger to the challenges brought by the weather. Floods and droughts pose struggles for the farm.

“Noong first pa lang no’ng 2021, bago kami mag-harvest, kaka-organize pa lang nito, binaha [kami]. (...) Mataas ‘yong baha. ‘Yan din ‘yong challenges ng manananim–pagbaha,” explained Mrs. Lilio.

Besides la niña season, el niño season complicates the irrigation of the 10-hectare land. Only two wells, one electric pump powered and the other manually operated, are their water source. 

Moreover, the lack of manpower hinders the rapid growth of New Greenland. Started with more than a hundred individuals –from mothers, fathers, and students during the pandemic –only half of these green thumb enthusiasts remain as society returns to its normal state. 

Ferlita Daelto, the lead farmer in the New Greenland Farm, continues to manage and overlook the growth of New Greenland despite various challenges alongside her fellow volunteers.  

Captain Wilfredo Cara sharing his aspirations on Urban Farming 

Growth of Multiple Farms

Barangay Bagong Silangan Captain Wilfredo Cara shared his aspirations for the continual growth of New Greenland and other urban farming initiatives in their community. 

“Ine-encourage ko lahat ng barangay na sana kung may mga bakante silang lupa na pwedeng pagtaniman, gawin nila itong ginagawa ng Quezon City government na nag-uurban farming,” advised Cara to other local government units.

Urban farming initiatives not only suffice food scarcity and highlight sustainability but also open an avenue for agri-tourism and continuous economic growth for Barangay Bagong Silangan. 

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Gallery

Marimar resting

Treehouse for resting

Farmer harvesting talbos

Sibling farmers on their daily routine

Lake near New Greenland Farm

Tatay Sablay’s freshly harvested sigarilyas

Ni: Lacambra, Heidi B., BAJ 3-1D

Sa bayan ng Pateros, may isang patok na meryenda na talaga namang tinatangkilik at binabalik-balikan ng madla. 

Ika nga nila, huwag mo munang tanggihan hangga’t hindi mo pa natitikman. 

Sa pamilihang bayan ng Pateros, nakilala ko si Ate Lalaine, o mas kilala sa tawag na “Ate Lala” isa sa mga pinakamatagal ng nagtitinda ng bibingkang abnoy sa nasabing bayan. Noong una ay itlog ng manok at itik ang kanilang itinitinda, hanggang sa nadagdagan ang kanilang produkto ng pagluluto at pagbebenta ng bibingkang abnoy. Ayon sa kaniya, higit sampung taon na silang umaangkat at nagtitinda sa pwestong ito, at isa sila sa pinakamatagal at binabalik-balikan ng kanilang mga suki dahil sa kalidad at abot-kayang presyo ng kanilang mga produkto. 

Taong 2018 nang magsimula silang magtinda ng Bibingkang Abnoy. Bukod sa ito ay kilala sa kanilang lugar bilang isang patok na meryenda, hangad din nilang makatulong sa kapuwa nila negosyante na mabawasan ang maaaring maging lugi nito sa pamamagitan ng pagbili ng mga malapit nang masirang itlog ng itik at gawin itong isang panibagong kapaki-pakinabang na produkto na patok sa panlasa ng masa. 

Ayon sa kanila, ang bibingkang abnoy ay nagsimula nang dahil sa kakulangan ng pagkain sa bayan ng Pateros noon. Dahil sa panghihinayang sa mga itlog na bulok o sira na, gumawa ang mga tiga-Pateros ng paraan upang ito ay mapakinabangan. At dahil bulok o sira na ang itlog, madali nang maintindihan kung bakit mayroon itong kakaibang amoy na maaaring hindi maging kaaya-aya para sa ilan. Ngunit sa pagtagal, kapag naging pamilyar na rin ang ilong sa amoy nito at ang dila sa lasa, ang tanging maiiwan na lamang ay ang linamnam ng bibingkang abnoy. 

Isinama ako ni Ate Lalaine sa kanilang tahanan upang ipakita sa akin kung paano niya iniluluto ang Bibingkang Abnoy. Ayon sa kanya, wala silang sapat na kagamitan sa kanilang tindahan upang siya ay makapagluto roon ng pambenta nilang Bibingka, kung kaya ay sa bahay na niya ito iniluluto at saka na lamang dinadala sa tindahan upang ilako. 

“Madali lang naman na magluto ng Abnoy. Nahirapan lang ako noong umpisa [dahil] hindi pa ako sanay sa amoy ng bugok nang itlog. [Noon], medyo naduduwal pa ako dahil sa amoy kung minsan. Pero sa katagalan, noong nakasanayan ko na rin naman. […] Tinuruan lang ako ng Uncle ko kung paano ang tamang pagluluto ng Abnoy, kapag kasi hindi mo naluto nang maayos, pwedeng maging malansa o mabaho talaga ‘yong amoy at hindi na masarap kainin,” pahayag ni Ate Lalaine 

Unang hakbang: Sa pagluluto ng Bibingkang Abnoy, mayroong anim na sangkap na kailangang ihanda. Una, ang bulok na itlog ng Itik, ang sibuyas, ang kinchay, asin, paminta, at mantika. 

Ikalawang hakbang: Hiwain ang sibuyas at kinchay sa maliliit na piraso at pansamantalang itabi. 

Ikatlong hakbang: Haluin ang itlog at lagyan ng pampalasang asin at paminta depende sa nais mong timpla. 

Ikaapat na Hakbang: Magpainit ng kawali. 

Ikalimang Hakbang: Lagyan ng mantika ang mainit na kawali at ilagay ang hinalong itlog. 

Ikapitong Hakbang: Ilagay ang kinchay at sibuyas sa itlog. Ito ay ginagawa upang hindi lubusang maluto ang kichay at sibuyas at mapanatili ang lasa nito sa itlog. 

Ikawalong Hakbang: Baligtarin ang itlog at hayaang maluto nang lubusan upang mawala ang lansa at di kaaya-ayang amoy sa iniluluto. 

Ika-siyam na Hakbang: Ihain! 

Sa simpleng pamamaraang ito ng pagluluto ng Bibingkang Abnoy, nakakabenta ang tindahan nila Ate Lala ng higit 20 piraso sa isang araw. Pinakamabili raw ang Bibingka tuwing hapon, sapagkat ito ang oras kung kailan kadalasang naghahanap ang mga tao ng masarap na meryenda. Ito ay kanilang ibinibenta sa dalawang sukat, ang isa ay isang buong Bibingka na sinlaki ng isang regular na pinggan sa halagang Php 60 at ang isa naman ay hinahati-hati na parang pizza slices na para naman sa mga naghahanap o gustong makatikim ng maliit lamang na porsyon sa halagang Php 15.  

“Ipagpapatuloy pa rin naming ang pagtitinda ng [Bibingkang] Abnoy dahil syempre, ipinagmamalaki namin na produkto ito ng Pateros. Naipapakita namin dito na kaya naming magawan ng paraan ang [akala ng ilan ay] patapon na,” wika ni Ate Lala. 

Panoorin ang video:

Para sa Pag-Alpas (Into the Transcendence)

by Cathlyn Keshel G. de Raya

For Helen Buena, a mother of 7 children, living a sustainable lifestyle is a way of preserving the future of her children. 

“Kung hindi natin uumpisahan ngayon, kawawa sila,” she said.

[Translation: “If we are not going to start now, they’ll suffer.”]

For almost a year now, Buena became an advocate of zero waste management after an eco-store has been built at the Aniban ng Lehitimong Paninirahan ng Ligtas sa Sakuna (ALPAS) Community Housing Project in Muzon, San Jose Del Monte City, Bulacan.  

Later on, she became the volunteer and sole saleswoman who keeps the sales of the store. 

Keepin’ it check. As the sole saleswoman of the eco-store, Buena religiously audits the sales immediately after someone bought at the store. 

The said eco-store was built and supported by DANA Asia, an international non-profit organization that helps and provide livelihood for communities around the globe while promoting a sustainable and zero waste lifestyle. 

Alpas. Located at the leftmost part, near the gate of the village, the small ALPAS eco-store strives amid the competitions in the market. The initiative aims to transcend into a plastic-free community. 

The eco-store consists of small group of volunteers from the officers of ALPAS homeowners’ association who keeps it running, including Buena. Even though she just receives honorarium in keeping the store, she still happy because in that way, she can help in keeping the environment clean. 

“Ako masaya akong nagbo boluntaryo kasi feeling ko, yung sa basura [ay nababawasan]. Para maenggayo rin sila na hindi magkalat,” Buena said.

[Translation: “I am happy by volunteering as I feel like in that way, the wastes are being minimized. It is also an initiative for other people to be inspired not to litter.”]

Every drop counts. Buena meticulously measures every drop and pieces of the items to make sure that the needs for goods are enough to be met. 

Meanwhile, Buena became an advocate because of the fear that her children might get caught of the waste because of the plastic waste.  

“Napapanood ko na isa pala yung Pilipinas sa pangatlo sa pinaka [nagko contribute] ng mga plastic [wastes]. Naisip ko yung generation, sa mga anak ko… at mga susunod pa, eh [baka] matatakpan na sila ng mga basura kung hindi natin sisimulan ngayon,” she stressed. 

[Translation: “I saw that the Philippines is the third on being the top contributor of plastic wastes. I thought and considered the current generation, my children, and the next generations. If we are not going to start the initiatives now, they might be caught up.”]

For context, Buena’s family is just one out of many families who have been relocated from waterways and high-risk areas in Caloocan City.

Now, Helen and one of her children work hand-in-hand in keeping the eco-store in their community. 

Sa kalsada ng Mendiola, Rotonda, tapat ng Malacanang, at kahabaan ng QC Memorial Circle, binabalot ng sigaw ng bayan, hiling ng pagbabagong malawakan, at pagtindig para sa mapagpalayang pamamahala. 

Ang bawat pagsigaw ng pakikibaka ay may kaakibat na munting paalalang huwag matakot. Huwag matakot sa mga banta ng kapahamakan at panganib na kalakip nito. Huwag matakot sa gobyernong nanggigipit at administrasyong kumikitil ng pangarap ng paslit. Sa bawat pakikibaka, nagigimbal ang kaligtasan ng mga aktibistang patuloy ang paglaban para sa pangmalawakang pagbabago at ikabubuti ng bayan.

Kahit na madalas marinig ang “bata ka pa, wala kang alam”, malaking porsyento ang mga kabataan at mag-aaral sa mga matatapang na tumitindig upang ipaglaban ang karapatan ng mga mamamayang walang habas na tinatapakan at sinisiil ng sariling pamahalaan. Kabilang sa libu-libong mag-aaral na aktibista si Aem Kimberly Ignacio, isang second-year Journalism student sa Politeknikong Unibersidad ng Pilipinas. Nagsimula sa pagiging miyembro ng Anakbayan-Morayta, pinagpalalim ni Aem ay pagmulat tungkol sa kabulukan ng sistema sa pagsama sa iba’t ibang kilusan at talakayang pampulitika. 

“Noong nangako akong tanganan yung gawain bilang isang lider-aktibista, tinanganan ko na rin yung pangako na sa kabila ng mga kontradiksyon, iigpaw ako pasulong,” giit niya. Hindi niya isasantabi ang pagiging isang tibak, sa bahay, sa paaralan, at sa kalsada man– 

Tulad ng karanasan ng bawat aktibista, hindi biro ang pag-aaklas. Ang pakikibaka sa klase ng komunidad na mayroon ang Pilipinas ay mas kinikilala bilang pawang pagkontra at panggugulo lamang, imbes na tignan bilang pagtindig at paglaban para sa karapatang pantao at pangbayan. Bagaman may halong hirap at trahedya ang pagiging isang tibak, hindi ito alintana ni Aem. 

“Ako ay isang anak ng tsuper, isyu pa lang ng jeepney phase out, tinulak na ‘ko upang makiprotesta. Kabilang pa dyan yung ABS-CBN Shutdown, na bilang isang nangangarap na journalism student ay sobrang apektado. Syempre, press freedom ‘yon eh. May it be a personal or family thing, ano mang aspeto ng buhay ko, pinapagsamantalahan ako sa lipunan eh,” ani niya noong tanungin kung bakit patuloy siya sa pakikibaka datapwat ang peligrong dala nito.

Kung ang kagustuhan lamang ng pantay-pantay na karapatan at ikabubuti ng masa ang punto ng bawat pagwewelga, kung maayos na pamumuno at sapat na tulong mula sa gobyerno lamang ang dahilan na mga kilos protesta, bakit pilit na isinisiil at pinatatahimik ng gobyerno ang mga aktibista? 

Ayon sa Human Rights Watch na inilabas ng World Report 2024, nilalagay sa malubhang panganib ng "red-tagging" ang mga makakaliwang aktibista at kritiko sa ilalim ng administrasyon ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. Paulit-ulit na ginagamit ng mga opisyal ng gobyerno at kanilang taga-suporta ang tradisounal at online media para akusahan ang mga grupo at indibidwal na may ugnayan sa kilusang komunista ng bansa. (“Pilipinas: ‘Red-Tagging’ Panganib Sa Mga Aktibista,” 2024)

“Tahi talaga sa sikmura ko ang pagiging aktibista. Ako, ang pamilya ko at ang kinabukasan ko kasi ang nakataya.” 

Tulad ng lahat ng magulang, matindi ang takot ng mga magulang ni Aem para sa kanya. Ayon nga sa kanyang ina na si Meriam Lastimosa, “Sabi ko nga, sige magPUP ka, huwag ka lang talagang magiging aktibista.” Alam ng ina nito ang hirap na dadanasin ng kaniyang anak. Mula sa red-tagging hanggang sa pag-alpas mula sa mga pulis. Ngunit sa huli, matapos ang mahabang paliwanagan at walangsawang reassurance mula sa anak, wala nang nagawa si Aling Meriam. 

Kahit minsan nang natimbrehan ng pulis, hindi tumigil si Aem sa pagtindig para sa masa. “Kapag aktibista ka, it’s more than rallying and joining mobilization, naroon yung kagustuhan mong itransporma yung lipunan sa isang lipunan na hindi na pinagsasamantalahan. Parte nito ang kagustuhan kong magkaroon ng isang lipunan kung saan ang tatay kong tsuper ay hindi pinapahirapan, isang lipunan kung saan ang mama kong ilang beses nabyuda ay hindi makakarinig ng misogynistic remarks.” Ang pagtangan ni Aem ng responsibilidad bilang aktibista ay hindi lamang para sa kanya, kasama niya rito ang kaniyang mga magulang at mga pangarap.

Sa kabila ng kahit anong dagok, habulin man ng mga pulis, timbrehan man at pilit na patahimikin, tuloy ang paglaban ni Aem sa kalsada, tuloy ang sigaw para sa masa, tuloy pa rin sa pakikibaka. “Puspusang pag-oorganisa, puspusang pagpupukaw. Tao sa tao, puso sa puso. Sino man ang binoto, ano man ang paniniwala nila, lalaban ako para sa kanila, sa lahat, para sa masa. Kasalanan sa masang pagsisilbihan ko na talikuran sila dahil sa sa pagkakaiba. Gobyerno ang kalaban dito, hindi ang tao.”

Anuman ang mangyari at saanman dalhin, dala ni Aem ang pagiging tibak niya. At hindi niya ito inihihiwalay sa pagiging anak, kaibigan, lider, at mag-aaral. Ang tungkulin niya bilang tibak nakaangkla sa kwento ng kaniyang buhay, nakatahi sa sikmura at nakadikit bituka, hindi nararapat ihiwalay sa ibang gampanin na mayroon siya.

Walang krisis ang hindi nagbubunga sa pag-aalsa. Ang bawat panggigipit ay nag-iiwan ng marka. Markang nagtutulak at nagiging sanhi ng pagtindig ng masa. Walang ibang sanhi, hindi ang aktibista ang may sala, gobyerno ang dahilan ng bawat pakikibaka.

At kung isang hiling lamang ang tutuparin, sana’y tinig na bayan ang dinggin. Lipunan kung saan ang karapatang pantao at tamang trato ay hindi tila isang bitwin, malayo, malabo, at mahirap abutin.

Kitakits sa kalsada! Tara na, sasama ka ba?

Late President Manuel Luis Quezon’s statue stands upright ahead of the Quezon Memorial Shrine

Introduction 

The Quezon Memorial Circle is both a shrine and a park; a shrine because here lies the remains of the late president Manuel L. Quezon and his wife, Doña Aurora Quezon, and a park as it was developed to be so many decades ago. 

Former Quezon City mayor Brigido Simon Jr. appointed Atty. Charito Planas as the head of Quezon City Parks Development Foundation, and it is under this foundation with which the four “lungs of the city” were developed, Quezon City Memorial Circle being one of them. In 

1989, the 26-hectare perimeter of the QCMC was developed into a recreational spot, and stands to this day as both a shrine to two of our historical figures and as a green park that’s fondly called by locals as “Circle”. 

Circle Today 

In present day Quezon City, Circle serves true to the vision that once helped shape it and more; it has become a destination for concerts, political movements, aerobics, zumba dancing, and even parties - all for the young and old. While most of these gatherings that come with loud music give an extra life to the park, they were minimized through the years as most park-goers insisted on keeping the serenity and peace within the park in respect to the fact that it still very much is a final resting place for both Manuel Quezon and Aurora Quezon. 

Even so, the park remains one of the city’s areas with the most foot traffic - thanks to the blanket of trees around Circle that makes it an ideal place for almost anything. Most park-goers enjoy the shade of trees while having a picnic with their family, while some others frequent the park to bike around the perimeter. While the park is open all days of the week with no entrance fee at all, Saturdays and Sundays are the busiest days inside Circle. 

2

The Mausoleum 

The 26-hectare landmark was originally only to serve as the late president Manuel Quezon and his wife’s final resting place. While nowadays, people are attracted and are going to Circle to create memories or just spend a day out in the sun, there’s a stark-white reminder at the center of it all of why such expanse exists. 

The Quezon Memorial Shrine was erected in 1950 through the efforts of one Federico Ilustre. The shrine is 66-meter high, with a museum below and mourning angels at the top. 

At the very top of the shrine, there are three angels perched, looking bleak, disheartened, and or at the brink of tears. These angels hold each of the country’s regional identity, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao - each of them holding sampaguita flowers in each hand. 

Liwasang Aurora 

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Liwasang Aurora is an open space with a fountain right in the middle; it is placed directly across the mausoleum 

Liwasang Aurora has been the destination for families to get together on any given weekend or lazy day. This is where the movement of zumba and aerobics dancers showcase their passion for health mobility! 

Tropical Garden 

4

Man rides on his bike on his way to the inside of the Tropical Garden at Quezon City Memorial Circle 

Apart from various amenities and sizable space, Circle also has its own cradle of plants that are being grown and sold around the area. One of these cradles can be found inside the tropical garden, where tropical plants are cultivated, grown, and sold. Inside the garden, there are also some picnic chairs, picnic tables, and man made ponds where you can see snapping turtles and koi fish swimming peacefully. 

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One of the fish ponds in the tropical garden 

World Peace Bell 

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The World Peace Bell is situated right outside the mausoleum; it is flanked by flags of different United Nations member nations down the alley leading to it 

A Japanese organization that promotes world peace, World Peace Bell Association, donated the World Peace Bell to Quezon City not earlier than 1994. It was placed within the park premises through the orders of then Quezon City Vice Mayor and head of Quezon City Parks Development Foundation Charito Planas. 

Weekends at the Park 

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Quezon Memorial Circle’s picnic area had recently been lined with stores; all these stores open every Saturday and Sunday 

Traversing through the park’s vast landscape or spending a whole day getting your cardio on can be very tiring and make one hungry. While most park-goers who frequent the area can say they’ve known the area long enough to not even be able to bring their own water bottles and packed lunch from home, most park-goers prefer the quick and hassle-free food - either way, you’ll be covered from what their flea market and snack alley offers: food, water, toys, and even that much needed coffee especially for parents who woke up early to make sure their kids enjoy a weekend at Circle. 

              Amidst the rise of mainstream local bands, there is always room for more especially when appreciation for the indie music scene has grown over the past few years. Saltine Pepper originally had no plans to continue as a band when they played for JC Ortega, who was a solo artist then and now vocalist of the band, in a gig in Marikina. But because of the undeniable chemistry the members had, a year had passed, and they are now making their own name in the industry.

                From the words “salt and pepper,” Saltine Pepper birthed its name from a silly wordplay, combining the phrase with a popular cracker brand. They also call their fans “shakers” for the same reason.

                “Pero kasi pag pakikinggan mo, Saltine Pepper, parang ang angas. Ang angas niya pakinggan,” Dup Gapud, the band’s pianist, adds.

                From posting online covers to playing live, the band shares their sentiments about their shared experiences. One of their fondest memories as a band was when they played for SUD’s send-off gig in 123Block. Saltine Pepper expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to play for one of the known mainstream OPM artists and the compliments they received that night despite of the rain and a few other mishaps. The band also reminisced the time they played at Pop Punk Night gig held on July 8, 2023 at Imajin: Arts and Music and how the audience’s high energy fueled their willingness to play more. They pointed out how the interaction was contrary to the reception for opening bands in general.

                “Sabi pa nila, third band palang pagod na pagod na kami,” Brylle Perfecto, the band’s bassist, recalls.

                In September of last year, the band released its first single ‘Sampaguita’ on Spotify. Miguel Cruz and Is Cruz, Saltine Pepper’s bassist and drummer respectively, expressed how the song signified a lot of the band’s firsts─ their first project as a band, first song they gained interactions from, and the first song they could call their own. Now at more than 5,000 streams, Sampaguita remains a laid-back melody, perfect for listening on the ride home.

                ‘Saan, Kelan,’ their next release in the works, tells a tale of a meet-cute and the unexplainable connection between strangers in random places. JC, explains how the song came to life, from lyrics to tune to the whole arrangement. He explains the art of using symbolisms and metaphors to relay the message to his audience and experimenting with the guitar to come up with catchy melodies. This recipe, along with setting the surroundings for the listeners, makes up the songwriting process for their awaited second single.

                Along with their next release, Saltine Pepper has more plans moving forward. “Ever since we started this band, ako personally, I envisioned it as not just a project band pero something that we hope to progress not just sa indie but into mainstream and we really strive making more music to come,” Brylle said. The band has started planning for the year ahead, hoping to tell newer, more unique storylines through their music, connect with more people, and cement their brand in the local music scene. 

Pogo: An employees’ perspective 

With the increasing population of Chinese people living in Tambo, Paranaque City, it became a  huge factor for the business industry to prosper. Whereas, various restaurants, companies, bars and  hotels have swiftly emerged creating a bustling crowd of noises and people. It also became a bridge  in opening career opportunities for the public, especially for individuals living within the  community. 

Figure #1: Chinese restaurants 

However, the appearance of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators, or mostly known as POGO,  further creates sensation. Not only to the community but also in the country. POGO is an offshore  gaming company that facilitates online gaming via the internet to foreigners. Its operations started  in 2016 after the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) gave their  permission. 

And since then, the companies have undergone various negative and controversial issues. Such as,  human trafficking, kidnapping for ransom, prostitution, torture and online scams. Making POGO  in a spotlight and heated situation.

Figure 2: POGO Company

Figure #3: POGO Entrance & Exit 

Shane is a 39 year old mother with 3 children, 1 daughter and 2 boys. She is currently working at  a POGO company as a Customer Service Representative. Before landing her present job, Shane  used to work in the barangay as a radio operator, whose task mainly revolves around transcribing  reports and responding to accidents. 

She was a public servant for about 6 years before she decided to quit and look for another job. One  of the reasons behind this is her financial issues. When Shane was asked about her salary income,  she did not specify an exact amount but instead opted in comparing the gap between her previous  and latest job. 

“Oo (malaki). Siguro mga triple yung sahod ko (kumpara) sa barangay.” 

In spite of earning a higher income, Shane never once imagined that she would enter POGO due  to its negative notion. She mentioned how she was only influenced and convinced by her barangay  friends, who also now work in the same industry. 

“Nahikayat na ko na lumipat na rin kasi nga yung income. Saka yung trabaho malapit lang sa  akin.” 

Shane also added that it wasn’t an easy and immediate decision to make. 

“Nung una nag hesitate (at) natakot ako kasi syempre diba, kapag sinabi nilang POGO ay illegal,  pero diyan sa pinapasukan ko naman ay licensed POGO siya. May mga taga-PAGCOR na nagka conduct ng roving o nagi-inspect kaya naman hindi na ko natatakot.”

Figure #4: Shane’s Company ID 

Meanwhile, Macky, 30 year old male, also currently works in POGO as a Business Support  Officer. He has only been in the company for 2 months after the job was offered to him. Same with  Shane, he also never imagined that he would enter POGO and stated that he doesn’t even know  what it is. 

“Hindi. Actually wala (nga) ako idea sa POGO until mapunta ako dito at magtrabaho.” 

Macky further added that the reason behind his employment was due to the conveniences it brought  to him. However, for his family and friends they were first afraid when they found out. 

“Natakot sila kasi baka illegal at i-raid ng pulis dahil sa mga napapanuod sa news.” 

When asked about his perspective regarding the issues surrounding POGO as an employee. Macky  states that POGO has its own good and bad sides. Yet, he believes that it contributed economically and helps a lot of Filipino individuals in terms of having a career opportunities. 

“Sana lang (ay) mas maiayos ang mga panukala dito at wag alisin ng buo (ang POGO).”

Figure #5: POGO building at night 

Devie, 32 year old female, also shared the same sentiments with Macky. Although, she didn’t  specify her job position, Macky and Devie are colleagues who once shared the same department. 

“For me, in my opinion sana huwag ipasarado ang POGO kasi ang daming Pinoy at Pinay na  nagwo-work sa POGO.” 

She also believes that POGO brought a good change, not only to the society but especially to her  fellow citizens. 

“Sa legal company ng POGO, Oo. Kasi marami silang natutulungan na mga kapwa ko Pinoy na  kahit hindi nakapagtapos ng pag-aaral (ay) nakakapasok sila sa ganyan (na) industry. Not like pag  sa ibang company, mataas ang standards or qualification.”

Figure #6: POGO building at night in a different angle 

The existence of POGO may remains a controversial and debatable issue in the Philippines.  However, in a society where housing consumption increases, the cost of billings and foods  inflates. Its existence can be considered a blessing in disguise for Filipino employees working in  the said industry. After all, it allows them to continue to provide and support their family needs.

The Philippines is considered the top country with the most plastic waste pollution in the world, with over 36%, or 3.30 kg, of waste produced by each Filipino every year. It is alarming because, despite all the laws implemented to ensure waste segregation, mountains of waste are still piling up in dumpsites, and most of them are plastics not being segregated properly.

(SACKS OF TRASH – A pile of uncollected wastes that are stack up near the bridge of a local community)

The Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 Article II, states that, “Segregation at source shall refer to a solid waste management practice of separating, at the point of origin, different materials found in solid waste in order to promote recycling and re-use of resources and to reduce the volume of waste for collection and disposal”

Recognizing that there is a plastic waste problem can help us reduce our garbage. That is why there are various groups and individuals who are making their move to reduce the usage of single-waste plastic products.

(GLIMPSE OF HOPE – The outside look of the Back to Basics Ecostore in Maginhawa, Quezon City)

In the streets of Maginhawa Village in Quezon City, one has come to encounter an ecostore, Back to Basics. Everyone of any age and gender can have a look around. First started in 2020 as delivering goods due to the pandemic, this store was opened in 2022 as their physical store.

(VISITORS FOR CHANGE: Ms. Laarnie (the woman in black on the right) together with PUP Journalism students posing for commemoration of their visit. (Credits: Princes del Corro))

Ms. Laarnie, the owner and one of the five founders of the store, explains the inspiration for their initiative. She explains that, as a mother, she was frustrated with the amount of plastic and sachets being thrown away after buying some products at the grocery store.

“Nakakafrustrate kasi pag mostly– especially nanay kami–‘pag mag-grocery na, ahhh, bibili na naman ako ng mantika, ng toyo, suka, panibago na naman tapos itatapon na naman ‘yun, ta’s dishwashing. Kumbaga regular ‘yan. Imagine mo ‘di ba? Monthly grocery, tapos monthly may tapon ako. So, versus ngayon, wala akong tapon at all sa ganiyan kasi paulit-ulit lang yung ano [container].” – Ms. Laarnie said in a conversation when one visit their store. 

(SACHET FREE – Some of the liquid products of BTB Ecostore being stored in containers and galons)

With their tagline “Zero Waste Made Easy," the store contains community-made products such as pantry staples, coffees, and even household essentials. There is no need to use plastic containers or sachets. As long as you bring your own containers and paper packaging, there will be a place for your products.

The plastic containers (in the picture above) being used to store liquid products are donated by regular customers and neighboring households. They make sure to sanitize the containers first before reusing them for packaging purposes, especially the glass-jar containers (see photo below), which can be used for liquid products like condiments or coffee beans.

(Container of repurposed bottles for liquid products and coffees)

(PROUD LOCAL – a glimpse of their locally-made soaps with various scents)

Some of their proud products are these community-made soaps that they make in partnership with Umaleng Farm. This permaculture farm is one of the main suppliers of organic products on the Zamboanga Peninsula. They were in the industry for almost 14 years.

(MORE OPTIONS – Some of the food products and condiments BTB Ecostore is selling)

Back to Basics Ecostore also has options for chefs and coffee lovers. Ms. Laarnie also revealed that one of her regulars is a chef who comes once a week to purchase some condiments.

They are also selling coffee beans that are proudly made from Davao by women farmers. 

Snacks are also available. There are several options, such as nuts, vegan chicharon, oatmeals, and there is also homemade macaroni and pasta. The store also provides a sample recipe if one wants to try making vegan spaghetti. 

(GIRLS CONVENIENCE – a basket full of feminine cloth pads for women on periods)

What resonated the most in the store was their feminine cloth pads, which they are also selling. As a woman, it is a big inconvenience to use sanitary napkins every now and then. It is also single-used, and the pads are thrown away immediately after use. Their pads can also save a woman from the irritation that regular pads may bring.

The Back-to-Basics Ecostore is one of the huge steps our country is making towards an eco-friendly environment. With proper knowledge and awareness of this emerging issue, we can come up with various ways to fight plastic pollution. Being an example of this change can reach people who are also in trouble with their waste.

Tigapag-alaga ng mga ala-ala

Sinong mag-aakala na sa isang sementeryo matatagpuan ang kabuhayang magsisilbing sandalan na aalalay sa buhay na tinatahak ng iilan?

Noong nakaraang nobyembre ay nakilala ko si Brent Evans Paras, 16 taong gulang, kasalukuyang nasa ikasampung baitang, habang bitbit ang hagdan na gawa sa kahoy na kanyang pinapaupahan sa mga taong maglilinis ng nitso ng kanilang mga mahal sa buhay na namayapa, at kung suswetehin ay siya na rin ang pinaglilinis at pinagtutulis ng kandila kung saan nakatatanggap siya ng mas malaking halaga. Ngunit ako ay napaisip kung ginagawa niya lamang ba ito sa tuwing nobyembre kung kailan dagsa ang pagpunta ng mga tao sa sementeryo.

Sa aking pagbalik Himlayang Marilenyo, isang pampublikong sementeryo sa probinsya ng Bulacan ay doon ko natagpuan si Evans hawak ang isang timbang bakal na kinakaladkad niya habang lumilibot sa mga nitso upang linisin ang iilan sa mga ito bilang parte ng kanyang trabaho, “kapag dumadalaw yung mga kamag-anak, hinahanap ako tapos nagbibigay, pandagdag ko sa baon tapos panggastos” sambit niya nang tanungin ko siya kung bakit nililinis niya pa rin ang mga ito kahit hindi naman araw ng mga patay.

Maaaring masabi o maisip natin na ang ginagawa ni Evans ay dapat tularan ng ibang kabataan dahil sa murang edad ay agad niya ng nauunawaan ang katotohanan na mahirap ang buhay para sa iilan, at imbis na magmukmok at iasa sa kanyang magulang ang lahat ng kanyang mga pangangailangan ay mas pinili niyang harapin ang hirap ng buhay, sa kabila ng kanyang responsibilidad bilang anak at estudyante ay nagagawa niya pa rin na gampanan ang kanyang responsibilidad sa kanyang trabaho na tumutulong sa kanya na mairaos ang araw-araw.

Isang tricycle driver ang ama ni Evans habang ang kanyang ina naman ay nasa bahay lamang para asikasuhin sila ng kanyang isa pang mas nakababatang lalaking kapatid, ayon sa kanya ay hindi araw-araw ay maganda ang kinikita ng kanyang ama kaya naman kung minsan ay kinakapos sila na naging dahilan ng kanyang pagsideline sa paglilinis ng nitso kasama ang kanyang tiyuhin na isang sepulturero na siya ring nagpapakilala ng mga suki sa binata.

“Hindi, panlaban pa nga ako Taekwondo eh, pero hindi rin matataas grades ko” natatawang sambit ni Evans nang tanungin ko siya kung kamusta ang kanyang pag-aaral dahil baka napapabayaan niya na ito dahil sa kanyang trabaho, nalaman kong nakuha niya rin ang kanyang pilay sa katatapos lang na sectoral meet sa kanuilang lugar, ngunit hindi ito naging sapat na dahilan para hindi niya magawa ang kanyang trabaho, dahil lubos niyang naiintindihan na napakalaking tulong nito sa kanya.

Bagamat isa lamang si Evans sa napakaraming kabataan na maagang nasabak sa hirap ng buhay nawa’y maging sapat na rason ito para magnilay ang bawat isa sa atin, maging mapagpasalamat sa lahat ng mayroon tayo, dahil sigurado ako na hindi kagustuhan ni Evans ang buhay na tinatahak niya ngunit wala siyang ibang pagpipilian kundi harapin ito.

(Image from the Fb page of AFGBMTS)